A Memerable Gourmet Evening: Cheesecake and Coffee

Think back to the happy movies of the 1930s, forties or fifties. Picture the social event that became the turning point of the movie. Men and women in formal attire speak in witty banter and waltz with swirling grace. In their hands, a shimmering martini. These days, we tend to socialize much more casually, even if we might still attempt clever dialogue.

Most of us don't have friends with opulent mansions; neither do we have the budgets that allow us to stock up on many bottles of imported gin and tin after tin of beluga caviar. Furthermore, we not as happy (or romantic) in tuxedos as in open shirts. Specialty coffee and a luscious dessert may be more appropriate ingredients for the relaxed social gatherings of our times.

The bakery around the corner has perfectly edible cheesecake, perhaps purchased from a local distributor, but you might want to consider something a bit more titillating to the taste buds of your guests. You can have unique cheesecake delivered to your door the day of your party from as far away as across the country.

Consider a selection of cheesecakes to meet the varied tastes of your guests. You might want to include a turtle cheesecake for the people who enjoy a bit of chocolate in any dessert. You can decorate with just a few shavings of dark chocolate, and all the people can pretend that they are eating a health food.

A key lime cheesecake, provides a welcome alternative for those of us who enjoy combining tart and sweet. Think about a couple mint leaves as a garnish.

Don't overlook those who are interested in splurging without sacrificing their dietary restrictions too much. Magnificent sugar free, low carb cheesecakes are available with tastes and textures that can rival their traditional counterparts. Add a couple berries or a thin slice of fresh pear.

Create some labels for each of your alternatives, so your guests can make informed decisions.

Of course, you'll want to include a robust decaf option. In addition choose to present just one interestingly flavored coffee. Add to that a bold roast from Jamaica or Columbia.

This is the type of informal entertaining that does not sacrifice the good taste that has always been the special ingredient for any social event in any era. Besides, there is no morning hangover. Doesn't this sound more twenty-first century to you?